What is the difference between nursery and childcare?

"Nursery" typically refers to a place or facility where young children, usually toddlers up to around three years old, are taken care of during the day. These establishments focus on early childhood education, providing activities that promote learning, socialization, and development appropriate for that age group. Nurseries often have structured schedules, incorporate play-based learning, and may introduce basic educational concepts. "Childcare," on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses the care and supervision of children, covering a wider age range from infancy to pre-adolescence. Childcare facilities or services offer care, supervision, and sometimes educational activities for children when their parents or guardians are unavailable, such as during work hours. Childcare can include nurseries for younger children, preschool programs, after-school care, and even programs during school holidays.

What age should a child start nursery?

The ideal age for a child to start nursery can vary depending on several factors including the child's development, family circumstances, and personal preferences. However, many nurseries accept children from around three months to three years old. Parents often consider starting nursery when their child is between two and three years old. This age range allows children to benefit from the social interaction and early learning experiences that nurseries provide.

When should I start looking at nurseries?

It's a good idea to start looking at nurseries well in advance of when you plan to enroll your child.Generally, starting your search around 6-12 months before you plan to enroll your child is a good timeline. This allows enough time for research, visits, and consideration before making a decision.

When should I start looking at nurseries?

It's a good idea to start looking at nurseries well in advance of when you plan to enroll your child.Generally, starting your search around 6-12 months before you plan to enroll your child is a good timeline. This allows enough time for research, visits, and consideration before making a decision.

How much is nursery per hour in UK?

On average, nursery fees in the UK can range from around £6 to £10 per hour. However, the cost of nursery per hour in the UK varies widely based on multiple factors such as location, the specific nursery, age of the child, and the services offered.

How to find a nursery school place?

Finding a nursery school place involves initial research to identify suitable options based on location, fees, and educational approach. Contact the shortlisted nurseries to inquire about availability, admission criteria, and fees. Schedule visits to assess the environment, staff interactions, and facilities. Once you've decided on a nursery, understand their application process and deadlines. Some may require filling out forms or paying a registration fee. If there's a waiting list, consider getting your child's name on it promptly to enhance the chances of securing a spot. Maintain communication with the nursery staff throughout the waiting period to demonstrate your continued interest. You can easily find nurseries in your area on nurseriesandschools.org

How do I find the right nursery for my child?

Finding the right nursery involves factors like location, educational approach, facilities, and staff qualifications. Start by researching nearby nurseries, checking online reviews, and seeking recommendations from other parents. Visit potential nurseries to observe the environment, how staff interact with children, and assess if it aligns with your child's needs and your preferences for early education. Ask about curriculum, safety measures, and opportunities for social interaction. Trust your instincts and choose a nursery that feels safe, nurturing, and stimulating for your child's developmental needs. Additionally, consider the nursery's educational philosophy, staff qualifications, and the overall atmosphere. Ensure it provides a balance between structured learning and play-based activities, fostering a supportive environment that encourages your child's social, emotional, and academic development. Effective communication and a positive relationship between the nursery and your family are also vital aspects to consider. Nurseriesandschools.org is a one stop solution for your nursery searches.

What time do nurseries open and close?

Most nurseries in the UK typically operate within a range of hours that accommodate working parents. Generally, nursery hours might start as early as 7:30 or 8:00 AM and can extend until 5:30 or 6:00 PM. Some nurseries might offer extended hours or flexible drop-off and pick-up times for parents who require childcare outside of these standard hours, accommodating varying work schedules.

What is the aim of a day nursery?

The primary aim of a day nursery is to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where young children can learn, play, and develop essential skills. Day nurseries typically focus on the holistic development of children in their early years. They focus on fostering social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through age-appropriate activities and play-based learning. Additionally, day nurseries aim to support families by maintaining open communication and collaboration. They strive to create a partnership with parents or guardians, offering guidance and updates on a child's progress while ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment that aids children in their developmental journey.

What is the aim of a day nursery?

The primary aim of a day nursery is to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where young children can learn, play, and develop essential skills. Day nurseries typically focus on the holistic development of children in their early years. They focus on fostering social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through age-appropriate activities and play-based learning. Additionally, day nurseries aim to support families by maintaining open communication and collaboration. They strive to create a partnership with parents or guardians, offering guidance and updates on a child's progress while ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment that aids children in their developmental journey.

What age groups are in a day nursery?

Day nurseries typically cater to a range of age groups within early childhood.Day nurseries are for children aged 3 months to 5 years of age. The age groups in a day nursery often include: Babies and Infants: Nurseries may have separate rooms or sections specifically designed for infants, usually from around three months old up to approximately 18 months or two years. Toddlers: Another group within day nurseries is typically toddlers, ranging from around 18 months to three years old. These children might be in a separate area or group within the nursery to cater to their specific needs and developmental stages. Preschoolers: Day nurseries often have spaces for preschool-aged children, usually from around three to five years old. These children might participate in more structured learning activities and preparations for formal schooling.

What comes first nursery or playgroup?

Playgroup comes first. Nursery and playgroup differ significantly in their formality and educational focus. Playgroup primarily centers on play, entertainment, and introductory activities like painting, coloring, and socializing. In contrast, nursery education is more structured, emphasizing various subjects such as math and language. It serves as a foundational educational environment, introducing young children to fundamental concepts like math, language skills, and values in a playful manner, preparing them for later entry assessments into reputable kindergarten programs. The atmosphere in playschools is notably relaxed and playful, fostering a casual environment for children. In contrast, the nursery provides a child's initial exposure to formal education, setting the stage for a more structured learning journey.

Why is nursery important in school?

Nurseries are essential in schools as they provide the foundational education and social development crucial for a child's early years. They focus on holistic development, introducing basic concepts like language, numeracy, and social skills in a structured yet nurturing environment. This early exposure prepares children for the routines and expectations of formal schooling, fostering independence, confidence, and the ability to interact with peers and adults. Moreover, nurseries play a pivotal role in identifying any developmental needs early on, allowing for timely support and intervention. They serve as the initial step in a child's educational journey, setting the stage for future academic success and providing the groundwork for social and cognitive development that forms the basis for later learning experiences.

What is day care for children?

Daycare for children refers to a facility or service that provides care, supervision, and sometimes early education for children during the day while their parents or guardians are at work or unavailable. Daycare centres cater to children of various ages, from infants to pre-adolescents, offering a safe and nurturing environment where children engage in age-appropriate activities, play, and socialization. The primary focus of daycare is to ensure the well-being and safety of children while their parents are away. Daycare centres typically have trained staff who oversees the children, offering meals, structured activities, playtime, and sometimes educational programs tailored to different age groups.

Is nursery part of preschool?

Yes, nurseries are a type of preschool. The term "preschool" is a broad category that encompasses early childhood education for children before they enter formal schooling. Nurseries specifically refer to early education and care centers for young children, typically between the ages of three months to five years old.

What comes after pre nursery?

After pre-nursery, children usually progress to nursery or preschool, depending on the specific terminologies used by different educational settings. Pre-nursery serves as an introductory stage for very young children, usually between the ages of two to three, preparing them for a more structured learning environment.

How do you start a nursery?

Starting a nursery involves several key steps and considerations: Research and Planning: Begin by conducting thorough research into the requirements and regulations for starting a nursery in your area or country. Understand the legal and licensing requirements, as well as zoning regulations and health and safety standards that apply to childcare facilities. Develop a Business Plan: Create a detailed business plan outlining your nursery's concept, mission, target market, services offered, staffing plan, operational structure, budget, and financial projections. This plan will serve as a roadmap for your nursery's establishment and operation. Secure Funding: Determine the financial resources needed to start and sustain the nursery. Explore funding options such as personal investment, loans, grants, or partnerships to cover startup costs, including facility setup, equipment, staffing, insurance, and initial operational expenses. Location and Facilities: Choose an appropriate location for your nursery that complies with zoning regulations and is accessible and safe for children and families. Ensure the facility meets licensing standards regarding space requirements, safety features, and amenities suitable for childcare. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits: Obtain the required licenses and permits to operate a childcare facility in your area. This typically involves fulfilling regulatory requirements, health inspections, background checks for staff, and meeting specific standards set by local authorities or governing bodies. Staffing and Training: Recruit qualified and experienced staff members who are passionate about early childhood education and childcare. Provide necessary training and certifications required for working in a nursery, including first aid and child safeguarding training. Develop Policies and Procedures: Establish clear policies and procedures for enrollment, health and safety protocols, curriculum, parent communication, discipline, and emergency procedures. Ensure these policies comply with regulatory standards and are communicated effectively to staff and parents. Market and Advertise: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your nursery and attract families. Utilize various channels such as social media, websites, local advertising, and community outreach to reach your target audience. Starting a nursery requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and a dedication to providing a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children. Seeking guidance from experts in childcare regulations or business development can also be beneficial in this process.

Why are nurseries closing?

Several factors contribute to the closure of nurseries in the UK; a main reason for these challenges was inadequate funding levels, which were made worse by the impact of Covid-19. The other factors include: Changes in Government Funding: Changes to government funding and subsidy schemes for childcare can significantly impact nurseries. Economic Challenges: Economic downturns or uncertain financial climates can affect parents' ability to afford nursery fees. Pandemic Impact: The COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on many sectors, including childcare. Competition and Market Demand: In some areas, there might be oversaturation or insufficient demand for nursery services. Regulatory Requirements: Compliance with strict regulatory requirements, such as staff-to-child ratios, health and safety standards, and educational guidelines etc can lead to nursery closures.

Why is a childminder better than a nursery?

Whether a childminder or a nursery is better for a child depends on various factors, including the child's needs, family circumstances, and personal preferences. Each option has its own advantages. Whereas childminders have: Individualized Care: Childminders typically care for fewer children in a home setting, allowing for more personalized attention. Flexibility: Childminders may offer more flexible hours compared to nurseries, catering to individual family schedules. Continuity of Care: With a childminder, children often experience more consistent care from the same individual over time. Home-Like Environment: Being in a home setting with a childminder can provide a homely and comforting atmosphere, which some children may prefer over a more institutional setting.

Why are nurseries so expensive?

Several factors contribute to the high cost of nurseries in the UK: Operating Costs: Running a nursery involves significant expenses, including staffing (salaries and training), rent or property costs, utilities, insurance, educational resources, and maintaining a safe and stimulating environment. Staffing Ratios and Qualifications: Nurseries in the UK are required to maintain specific staff-to-child ratios and employ qualified staff, which can impact costs. Limited Government Subsidies: While the government provides some financial support for childcare through schemes like the Tax-Free Childcare and 30 Hours Free Childcare for eligible families, the subsidies might not cover the full cost of nursery fees. This leaves a considerable portion of the cost burden on parents. Location and Demand: Nursery fees can vary based on geographical location and local demand. In areas with high living costs or high demand for childcare services, nurseries might charge higher fees to cover their expenses and maintain quality standards. Quality of Services: Nurseries that offer high-quality education, trained staff, specialized programs, and better facilities may charge higher fees to cover these enhanced services.

Nurseries Alton | Find Childcare in Alton

Danesfield Manor School

Rydens Avenue Walton-on-Thames KT12 3JB South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

0 Reviews

5 stars

0

4 stars

0

3 stars

0

2 stars

0

1 star

0

View Full Details

First Friends Day Nursery - Wootey

Wooteys Way Alton GU34 2JA South East England Hampshire East Hampshire Area

First Friends Day Nursery - Wootey sits on the grounds of Wootey Infant School. The environment is filled with quality resources and children have ample opportunity to engage in exciting activities.The nursery is free flowing and children can access the outside space during play.Children also b...

Read more about First Friends Day Nursery - Wootey

0 Reviews

5 stars

0

4 stars

0

3 stars

0

2 stars

0

1 star

0

View Full Details

Heydays Preschool

c/o Four Marks Primary School Four Marks Alton GU34 5AS South East England Hampshire East Hampshire Area

Welcome to Heydays PreschoolHeydays Preschool is based in the grounds of Four Marks Primary School and provides a caring and supportive, home-from-home environment, preparing children for their first years of school.Heydays Preschool has a large outdoor playground, a field, and an additional outdoor...

0 Reviews

5 stars

0

4 stars

0

3 stars

0

2 stars

0

1 star

0

View Full Details

Hide And Seek Childcare

19 Ashes Close Walton on the Naze CO14 8TZ East of England Essex Tendring Area

Tracy Hide is the founder of Hide and Seek. She first started in 2003 as an independent accredited childminder with a level 5 in childcare. In 2006 she received outstanding. Only 9% childminders achieve outstanding and have continued to get outstanding. From September 2018 the setting is about ...

0 Reviews

5 stars

0

4 stars

0

3 stars

0

2 stars

0

1 star

0

View Full Details

Little Bears Day-Care

Whiteley Village Cricket Club Coombe Lane Walton-on-Thames KT12 4EL South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

Little Bears Day Care provides childcare from the age of two-to five-years-old, offering an environment that is calm, welcoming and will nurture each child during their social and emotional development.At Little Bears, staff believe that children's natural curiosity should be encouraged. Childr...

0 Reviews

5 stars

0

4 stars

0

3 stars

0

2 stars

0

1 star

0

View Full Details

Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Walton-On-Thames

Rivendell Court 174 Terrace Road Walton-on-Thames KT12 2ED South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Walton-on-Thames focus their childcare and education on learning through play for children aged three months to pre-school age.The friendly and nurturing staff engage children in planned, safe and fun activities in the purposely designed rooms. The rooms and resources ...

Read more about Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Walton-On-Thames

0 Reviews

5 stars

0

4 stars

0

3 stars

0

2 stars

0

1 star

0

View Full Details

Perfect Start Day Nursery - Walton on Thames

1 Kings Road Walton-on-Thames KT12 2RA South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

Perfect Start Day Nursery - Walton on Thames is due to open in Summer 2021.The purpose-built nursery will provide childcare and education for children aged 6 weeks to five years.Facilities and features will include a beautiful outdoor play area and a dedicated parent room to watch their child s...

Read more about Perfect Start Day Nursery - Walton on Thames

0 Reviews

5 stars

0

4 stars

0

3 stars

0

2 stars

0

1 star

0

View Full Details

Puffins Pre-School Day Nursery - Walton-On-Thames

Cambridge Road Walton-on-Thames KT12 2DP South East England Surrey Elmbridge Area

Puffinâs strive to provide outstanding care for children aged 2-5 years old, giving them the best opportunity to grow and develop their knowledge and skills whilst having lots of fun!Aiming to provide a home-from-home environment that is safe, nurturing and stimulating, Puffin...

Read more about Puffins Pre-School Day Nursery - Walton-On-Thames

0 Reviews

5 stars

0

4 stars

0

3 stars

0

2 stars

0

1 star

0

View Full Details

Single Steps Nursery

Convent of St Lucy High Street Medstead Alton GU34 5LL South East England Hampshire East Hampshire Area

Brookvale Children's Centre Woodhatch Road Runcorn WA7 6BJ North West England Cheshire Halton Area

Heath Road South Weston Runcorn WA7 4QR North West England Cheshire Halton Area

Halton Lodge Children's Centre Grangeway Runcorn WA7 5LU North West England Cheshire Halton Area

...

Palace Fields Day Care Centre Badger Close Runcorn WA7 2QW North West England Cheshire Halton Area

na ...

SEARCH

Danesfield Manor School

0 Reviews

First Friends Day Nursery - Wootey

0 Reviews

Heydays Preschool

0 Reviews

Hide And Seek Childcare

0 Reviews

Little Bears Day-Care

0 Reviews

Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Walton-On-Thames

0 Reviews

Perfect Start Day Nursery - Walton on Thames

0 Reviews

Puffins Pre-School Day Nursery - Walton-On-Thames

0 Reviews

Single Steps Nursery

0 Reviews

Acorn Community Nursery

1 Reviews

Alton College Nursery

0 Reviews

Bamboo Bear Day Nursery

1 Reviews

Bright Horizons Carshalton Day Nursery And Preschool

0 Reviews

Brookvale Nursery

0 Reviews

Building Blocks Pre-School Daycare

0 Reviews

Busy Bees At Carshalton Beeches

0 Reviews

Busy Bees Nursery Alton

0 Reviews

Caterpillars Day Nursery

0 Reviews

Daisy Maisies Appleton

0 Reviews

Daisy Maisies Chapelfield

0 Reviews

Ditton Early Years Centre And Nursery School

0 Reviews

Dunkys Day Nursery - Runcorn

0 Reviews

Dunkys Day Nursery - Widnes

0 Reviews

Early Learners Nursery Runcorn

0 Reviews

Early Learners Nursery Widnes

0 Reviews

Elmwood Nursery

0 Reviews

Enchanted Nursery Ltd

0 Reviews

Happytalk Nursery

0 Reviews

Heathside Day Nursery

0 Reviews

House Martins Childrens Day Care Centre

0 Reviews

Kids Planet Day Nurseries - Widnes

0 Reviews

Ladybirds Neighbourhood Nursery

0 Reviews

Lilliput Childrens Centre

0 Reviews

Little Manor Private Day Nursery And Pre-School Runcorn

0 Reviews

Malton Montessori School Nursery

0 Reviews

Meadowfield Nursery School

0 Reviews

Our Ladys First Steps Pre-School

0 Reviews

Palacefields Daycare Centre

0 Reviews

Play Away 2 Day Nursery

0 Reviews

Play Away Day Nursery